Trekking in Nepal in February

Many people inquire about the feasibility of trekking in Nepal in February. You must be wondering about it, Don’t you?

Winter is a great season for shorter treks at lower elevations. The temperature is colder as compared to other seasons, but if you are in for the clearest skies and lesser crowds, trekking in Nepal in February will be an absolute treat!

Spring and Autumn (March-May and September – November) are supposedly the best seasons for trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal. But if you are looking for something more unconventional, we at Mosaic Adventure are here to help you throughout the year.

Customarily, Nepal has 6 seasons. Either way, February marks the end of winter but still falls within winter. This means that trekking in Nepal in February will not be the easiest thing due to cold temperature.

But trekking in Nepal in February is not something that can be marked as unachievable.

Let me guide you through everything there is to know about winter trekking (December – February) in Nepal.

As unforgiving as the weather can be, February will offer the clearest blue skies, providing you with the most uninterrupted view of the Himalayas.

February is a relatively dry month, so typically, there is less rain and snow, as well as fewer clouds and less humidity to obstruct a clear mountain view.

The weather around the mountains is normally unpredictable. On an average, it will still be pretty cold in February. February is marked with relatively warmer days than December and January, but it will still be really chilly at nights.

It is advisable to do the shorter treks at lower elevations like the Poon Hill Trek, Taste of Nepal Tour, and Bike Paddle Holiday. These are our customizable tour packages that include short treks around the Annapurna Region.

But if you are more ambitious and want to opt for more challenging treks like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Langtang Valley Treks, we here at Mosaic Adventure will help you get there.

Other of the greater treks like Everest Base Camp Trek, Everest Panorama Trek, in Everest region or Annapurna Circuit Trek in Annapurna region or Manaslu Circuit Trek along with Manaslu Tsum valley Trek in the Manaslu region are doable with great experience.

Be cautious while you choose a trekking route if you will be trekking in February. If there are heavy snowfalls, most high passes remain closed. It may still be snowing in February, so plan your trek beforehand so, we can preplan and help you through your trek.

Contact us at Mosaic Adventure and we will customize your February trekking in Nepal as per your availability and requirements.

Weather Conditions for Trekking in Nepal in February

Shishir Ritu or the Winter season in Nepal starts in (Magh mid-January) and ends in Falgun (mid-March). This is the coldest season in Nepal for the year. February falls within Nepal’s winter which means it will be freezing early in the month and will be very cold by the end.

So, how is the weather up there in February?

It is a relatively dry month so typically there is little rain and snow, not to be taken for granted, of course. I’d say the daytime temperatures are quite warm up to intermediate altitudes.

I have trekked with a single layer, a t-shirt, and sandals up to 3500m later in the month. And there are fewer clouds and the humidity is low as well so, the mountain views are clear and sharp.

Snow falls can be expected in areas of high altitude while low-lying areas experience cold winds throughout February. Temperature can drop down to a maximum of -20 degrees at higher altitudes. If the temperature isn’t cold enough, the cold winds will definitely get to your bones.

Temperatures and climatic conditions will differ as you go up in altitude or descend.  Likewise, the temperature and climatic conditions vary with the variation in place. Bottom line, it will be REALLY cold.

Higher passes and all the base camps will be covered in snow. Which means they can be closed for trekking if there are too much snow and ice. And although they are mostly closed from December to January, if you are lucky, they can be open during February.

If you let us know early, we can let you know if the routes are open for trekking before you book your trip to Nepal.

Also, there are higher possibilities of avalanches on higher altitudes as warmer weather moves in. Always expect passes and base camps to have more extreme conditions than the lower and shorter treks.

Generally, the days are always clear in the winter season in Nepal. Offering you the best view of the mountains in December, January, and February. Hence, February is ideal for trekking at lower elevations.

If you still are adamant about trekking in Nepal in February, well then, prepare yourself for snow, winds and a really cold climate!

Highlights for Trekking in Nepal in February

The best part about trekking in Nepal in February has to be the isolated trails on your trek. The trails will be packed with trekkers during full-season. And not to forget; the tea houses sometimes run out of accommodation during these peak hours.

February is the off-season for trekking in Nepal. Which will let you enjoy the isolated trails and empty guesthouses.

If you want to steer away from the crowd, then February is probably the best time to be trekking in Nepal.

• Beautiful snow covered mountains
• Crisp and clear blue sky
• Beautiful night sky
• The mountain views are best in the winter, with clear weather almost guaranteed
• Enjoy some of the most popular treks in Nepal, crowd-free
• Get a great bargain on nicer hotels in the low season
• Despite the cold nights, the sunny winter days are great for trekking
• Less crowd
• More peaceful
• More choices for accommodation

Best Trekking Trails for Trekking in Nepal in February

Here’s a list of the recommended trekking destinations that are the best trails for trekking in Nepal in February.

Poon Hill Trek in February

The Poon Hill Trek is a perfect trek for someone who is running short of time but heartily want to catch a sight of the mountains views. It is just a 4-day trek to get the first best view of the Annapurna Mountains. The main attraction of this trek is the morning sunrise over the mountains at Poon Hill.

The trip begins from Kathmandu to Pokhara, where we will spend a day exploring the beautiful Lake City. We will also spend a day on our way back. And the trek route starts and ends in Nayapul, looping around Ghorepani and Ghandruk, beautiful Gurung villages where you will get to experience the village lifestyle.

We stay in friendly tea houses, tackle a challenging climb of 3300 steps up to Ulleri. And follow the River Burundi east past low land rice fields and thick jungles where you will see monkeys playing and many species of birds resting in the trees.

You will get the perfect view of the Annapurna South, Barasikha, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, the Dhaulagiri mountain range and Tukuche Peaks.

This trek offers the crisp serenity of this high alpine area and a peek into traditional Nepali lifestyle within the shortest distance and duration.

Highlights of the Poon Hill Trek in February

• A short and easy trek that offers a breathtaking view
• Best sunrise in Nepal over the mountains at Poon Hill
• Gurung village and rich culture as well as modern facilities
• View of the amazing flora and fauna
• Staggering view of the Annapurna, Himchuli, and Machhapuchhre
• Boating, music, and relaxation at Pokhara

Langtang Valley Trek in February

The Langtang Valley is another short and relatively easy trek that I would recommend you to do in the month of February.

It is a 8-day trek to the beautiful valley of Langtang. Its main attractions are the Kyanjin Gompa and the mountain lakes. The trail to Langtang is nestled in one of the most unspoiled national parks of Nepal, to the north, near the Tibetan border. Plus, it is the most easily accessible highland sanctuary from Kathmandu.

Snow-capped mountains encapsulate this remote valley with the peak of Langtang Lirung (7246m) dominating the skyline. You trial embarks among thick forests, lush farmland, traditional villages in the deep gorges of the Bhote Koshi while the Langtang Khola gushes at the bottom of the valley.

Langtang is famous for colorful rhododendron forests, oak, maple, and alder tree forests. And is home to an array of wildlife- wild boar, Himalayan black bears, ghoral, grey langur monkeys, leopards, musk deer, and the endangered red panda all call this lush, green sanctuary home.

The upper Langtang Valley is also a breeding ground for the Tibetan snow cock and snow partridge, which you might see.

Astonishing Himalayan views, pristine trekking trails through a sumptuous environment and an insight into the time-honored traditions of the Tibetan influenced local people, all make this trek completely unforgettable.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in February

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is also a good option if you are looking for a destination for trekking in Nepal in February. This is a journey to the lap of the Annapurna range within a period of 9 days.

This trek will give you the perfect blend of spectacular mountain vistas, traditional mountain village life, and thick rhododendron, and bamboo forests.

Like the Poon Hill Trek, this trip begins and ends at the beautiful Lake City of Pokhara. The ABC route visits Poon Hill, giving unparalleled mountain vistas and some perfect photo opportunities. So, if you are feeling a bit more courageous, you can opt for this Annapurna Base Camp Trek in February.

The trek begins the next day from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani and beyond through lush forests and farmland to narrow gorges overlooked by the mighty Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.

This route passes through the Gurung and Magar villages, whilst you enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna Range, introducing you to their cultures and their warm and welcoming personalities.

Annapurna Base Camp is famous for its diverse species of birds and wildlife. ABC is the final destination where we will be encapsulated in a mountainous wonderland. Surrounded by the icy peaks of some of the world’s highest and most beautiful mountains, you cannot help to fall in love with this region and be blown away by its crisp serenity.

And finally, the highlight of this trek would be the Hot Springs at Jhinu Danda. Relax and unwind yourself at the natural hot water springs, next to the river, at the bottom of the hill.

Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp in February

• Boating, music, and relaxation at Pokhara
• You can cover the Poon Hill Trek within this trek
• Jhinu Hot Springs
• Gurung village and rich culture as well as modern facilities
• View of the amazing flora and fauna
• Staggering view of the Annapurna, Himchuli, and Machhapuchhre
• Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek in February

If you think the Base Camp treks are too ambitious, try this 20-days trek to the Everest Base Camp all the way from Jiri! From low altitudes, this Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is the traditional route to Everest before the Airport at Lukla existed.

This path has been walked by the likes of Sir Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, and many other budding mountaineers. The route dates back to the 1950s and heads eastbound through lush green vegetation to the Lamjura La and Thaksin Do before following the banks of the Dudh Koshi River.

As this route begins at a lower altitude than the conventional routes to the Everest Base Camp starting in Lukla. Making this route especial favorable for February. You will be able to adapt to the increasing altitude better as you have more time and there is a slow and steady climb up to higher altitudes.

The trek eventually joins the more popular route from Lukla and continues on to the lively and vibrant hillside town of Namche Bazar. It offers stupendous views of Kwangde, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. It then heads up to the beautiful site of Thyangboche where you will experience mesmerizing, panoramic views, before climbing on to Everest Base Camp itself, leaving you feeling literally on top of the world!

Highlights of the Jiri to EBC Trek in February:

• At the Base Camp of the world’s tallest mountain Mt. Everest
• Better acclimatization since you will be trekking from Jiri
• Dudh Kosi River
• Namche Bazaar, world’s highest trading center
• Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Monument
• Tengboche Monastery (3,867m)
• Gorak Shep (5,164 m) is a frozen lakebed covered with sand which sits near Mount Everest. And a final stop on the trek to Everest Base Camp.
• Kala Patthar- the vantage point for the Everest view

Manaslu Circuit Trek in February

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is another 15-days trek that you can opt for in February. This trek offers beautiful wilderness and surroundings that will leave you absolutely speechless.

As you hike from village to village, tackling the challenging terrains, you will experience an array of indigenous wildlife, geological wonders, the ruins of an ancient civilization, and some of the best mountain vistas and panoramas in the world.

The hills are home to the most wonderful wildflower blooms that transform this landscape into an explosion of color and will definitely be an unforgettable sight. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a trek to Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. Enjoy the marvels of the pristine environment and boundless beauty.

Trekking around the Manaslu Circuit in February will be an amalgamation of diverse cultures, breathtaking scenery, and environmental marvels all with clear skies. It will take you on an epic journey into the serenity of the Himalayas with breathtaking views of the highest peaks in the world towering over 8000 meters.

Tips for Trekking in Nepal in February

It is always better to be safe than sorry. As cliche as that sounds, it holds full weight when it comes to trekking in Nepal in February. If you are still planning to do a trek in Nepal in February, you will have to be a bit more careful than usual.

If there’s anything I need to give you a heads up on trekking in Nepal in February, it would be the weather. With proper trekking equipment and clothing, trekking shouldn’t be impossible. Other general tips on February trekking would be:

• Try opting for the shorter treks. Although not necessary, the routes at higher altitudes may be closed. Or, will be prone to more risks.
• Avoid extended treks or treks with high passes/base camps.
• Dress appropriately for the season. It is absolutely necessary that you have the best hiking clothes for a winter trek. Always better to have more clothes than less.
• Take all the trekking equipment that you may need.
• Hire a porter to share the load. Even if you are somebody who is fit, trekking will demand a lot of mental and physical strength. Carrying a fully equipped bag will get heavy for anyone after an extended duration.
• Take a well-experienced guide and be sure to check in at every stop
• Be sure to spare a few days regardless of the season. Unpredictable weather and enexped injuries may cause delays.

What to Wear for Trekking in Nepal in February?

Like I said earlier, if you are appropriately dressed, trekking in Nepal in February wouldn’t really be a problem. Preparation is necessary when trekking in Nepal at any time of year and it is especially more important during winter trekking.

It will be warm enough to go trekking in a minimal amount of clothes during the day, while the temperatures yet drop to below freezing at higher elevations.

Almost all winter equipment can be bought or rented at the shops in Thamel, Kathmandu. So, you don’t really have to bring them from your country. Prices are also almost the same for the branded clothing, while there are many counterfeit branded clothing.

Unless you are picky about the quality. Be sure to check for the websites online before you purchase from the shops in Thamel.

Here’s a checklist of essential winter gear to have for trekking in Nepal in February:

Clothing:

• Moisture Wicking Tops
• Convertible Hiking Pants
• Hiking Undergarments
• Thermal wear

Footwear

• Gaiters for hiking in winter
• Hiking boots
• Hiking Socks
• Hiking Sandals

Jackets

• Down Jacket
• Synthetic Insulated Jacket
• Windstopper Jacket
• Waterproof shell Jacket

Head

• Sun hat
• Polarized UV Sunglasses
• Warm headgear or a hat
• Bandana or scarf

Equipment List for Trekking in Nepal in February

Here is a list of items other than your clothing that you may want to tick off your checklist. To ensure the most comfortable hike, consider carrying all of these items. Although I would recommend you to not carry a load over 7 Kilograms, you can always hire one of your porters to carry your hiking bag.

You can find all of these items in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Unless you are particular about the brand of your toiletries, you do not have to bring all of these from your home country if you already have an excess baggage.

Toiletries and Personal Hygiene

• Sunscreen
• Tissue/Toilet paper
• Mini Personal bathroom set (shampoo, body wash, cream, conditioner, etc)
• Moisturizer
• Antibacterial Sanitizer
• Wet Wipes
• Wet wipes
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Quick drying towel
• Feminine Hygiene products

Accessories

• Day pack (for personal valuable items)
• Trekking poles
• Sleeping bag
• Headlamps
• Personal Water bottle
• First Aid Kit
• Extra plastic bags (to store your garbage on your way and another to keep your things dry)

Other Recommended Items

• Camera
• Binoculars
• Pillow case
• Trail Map
• Sleeping Bags

FAQS

Q1. Is February a good time to go for a trekking trip in Nepal?

A. February is a good time to trek. It is not high season, not as busy as March and April, quieter because it is believed that the weather is not suitable.

Q2. How cold will it be?

A. February is winter but it was not much cold in my experience. Maybe I am used to it but even others have dealt it with appropriate gears and clothing.

It is a relatively dry month, so typically, there will be little rain and snow, not to be taken for granted of course. I’d say the daytime temperatures are quite warm up to intermediate altitudes.

I have trekked with a single layer, a t-shirt and sandals up to 3500m later in the month. And, there are fewer clouds and the humidity is low too so the mountain views are clear and sharp.